Beef Stew

Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners and looking for a heartwarming meal that’s both comforting and satisfying?

Beef stew is the perfect solution for those cold evenings when you crave something hearty and fulfilling. This dish is a classic favorite, boasting tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, savory broth alongside flavorful, soft vegetables. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy nights in, making it a beloved recipe in many households.

Not only does this beef stew deliver on flavor, but it’s also simple to prepare and perfect for meal prepping. You can toss everything into one pot and let it work its magic, providing you with tasty leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cooked in One Pot: Less mess means more time to relax!
• Hearty and Filling: Perfect for keeping you warm on chilly nights.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
• Family Favorite: A recipe that brings everyone to the table!

Ingredients for Beef Stew

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions of Beef Stew

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches and brown it on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer and cook: Return the browned beef to the pot along with the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time to properly brown the beef; it adds depth and flavor.
• Feel free to add more veggies: Throw in some peas or celery for extra nutrition!
• Taste and adjust: Always taste the stew before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.

Substitutions & Variations of Beef Stew

To Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free beef broth and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Variations: Consider adding a splash of red wine for depth or even a handful of mushrooms for an earthy flavor twist!

Storage Instructions of Beef Stew

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer: This beef stew freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-friendly container.

Make-Ahead: Chop all the vegetables the day before to save time when you’re ready to cook.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Beef Stew

Can I use other cuts of beef? Yes, chuck roast or brisket are great alternatives for this stew.

How can I thicken the stew? If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Just add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Toughts

A steaming bowl of beef stew brings warmth and comfort, making it a favorite in many homes. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this hearty beef stew a try and share your experience with us by dropping a comment and a star rating!

Hearty Beef Stew

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A comforting beef stew with tender chunks of beef simmered in rich broth and soft vegetables, perfect for cold evenings.

• Total Time: 135 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches and brown it on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot along with the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 90 to 120 minutes, until the beef is tender and flavors meld.

Notes

For added nutrition, feel free to incorporate more vegetables like peas or celery. Don’t rush the browning of the beef for better flavor.

• Author: soukaina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None